The Junius Courtney Big Band, made up of veteran players who "know how to tell a rousing story in eight bars," is a Bay Area institution that "embodies Swing," according to music critic Andy Gilbert. Tonight these consummate musicians pay tribute to legendary jazz pianist Earl "Fatha" Hines, featuring the exceptional piano work of special guest Tammy Hall, as well as classic songs and narration by the band's extraordinary vocalist, Denise Perrier. The "Earl "Fatha" Hines Session" highlights some of Hines' own arrangements and signature tunes, special presentations of small group numbers, like the Earl Hines-Louis Armstrong classic, "Weatherbird" and "West End Blues" and the band's own versions of Hines' material. The Junius Courtney Big Band will elevate their musical tribute to the "godfather of bebop" up to the rafters of the Freight.

Tammy is a pianist with formidable style, chops and acclaim. The accompanist of choice for Bay area vocalists and beyond, including Etta Jones and Little Jimmy Scott, and is a bandleader in her own right, with her own catalog of dynamic CDs.

This stellar big band, founded in 1966 by New Orleans trumpeter, Junius Courtney, never fails to bring down the house. Led by drummer Nat Courtney, son of the late bandleader, and under the musical direction of George "Jazzbeaux" Spencer, the Junius Courtney Big Band thrives via a combination of exciting jazz charts and impressive jazz chops. Denise Perrier, the band's supremely stylish vocalist for almost ten years, adds a layer both salty and sweet. Their newly-released CD, US, has been garnering substantial radio airplay and will be available at the show.